Tariyawn Knighten is a Chicago based artist, documentarian, educator, and self-published author whose work derives from growing up and working on the west side. By exploring the narratives within the Black American aesthetic, Knighten’s view of Chicago creates personal relationships between himself and the subjects he documents. With the knowledge that the Black Migration caused many White Americans to flee urban neighborhoods for the surrounding suburbia, he is dedicated to showcasing the stories of everyday Black life. It is important because the visual presence of the west side has not been sufficiently documented within the history of photography. This work needs to be seen by a wide range audience because it provides a visual perception of everyday people who are overlooked in the social construct of the city. Knighten uses his camera to document the existence and success of the midwest Black Belt which is home to a dense population of Black people. Beginning in Chicago, Knighten will continue his documentation process through such cities such as Chicago, Philadelphia, and Detroit. Though segregation ended in 1954, it is still prevalent today.

In addition to his practice. Tariyawn Knighten is receiving his BFA in Arts Education (2021).